Malicious destruction of property charges, or MDOP, are accusations that a defendant intentionally caused property damage to financially harm the victim or cause damages. In situations where the property is proven to belong to the defendant or there is reason to believe the damage was accidental, the charges could be dropped. Otherwise, MDOP charges can result in either felony or misdemeanor conviction.
Whether you’ll face misdemeanor or felony conviction will depend on two factors:
- How much damage you’re accused of causing
- If you have prior MDOP convictions
Misdemeanor MDOP Charges in Michigan
If you have zero prior convictions of malicious property damage and you’re accused of less than $200 of property damage, you’ll be charged with a “93-day misdemeanor,” and your penalties will include 93 days of jail time and a fine worth 3x the damage ($500 minimum). If you’re charged with causing between $200 and $1,000 in property damage or you have a prior MDOP conviction, you’ll be charged with a one-year misdemeanor. The penalties for a one-year misdemeanor include a year in jail and a fine of 3x the damage ($2,000 minimum).
Felony Malicious Destruction of Property in Michigan
If you’re charged with causing between $1,000 and $20,000 of malicious destruction of property or you have a prior felony MDOP conviction, you’re facing Class E felony charges. The penalty for Class E felonies includes up to 5 years in prison and a fine of 3x the damage ($10,000 minimum).
If you’re charged with causing more than $20,000 in property destruction or you have two or more prior felony MDOP convictions, then you’ll be charged with a Class D felony. The penalty for Class D felonies includes up to 10 years in prison and a fine of 3x the damage ($15,000 minimum).
Call a Felony MDOP Attorney in Farmington Hills
Whatever charges you’re facing, speak with me, Daniel D. Hajji, Attorney at Law, as soon as possible. As a Farmington Hills criminal defense lawyer, I’ve helped countless people get their charges reduced or dropped. No lawyer will be more available, communicate with you more often, or work harder on your behalf.
To learn your defense options, speak with my office for a free consultation at (248) 599-0054 as soon as possible!